When it comes to fleet safety, it’s not always about what you do. Sometimes it’s about what you miss. And unfortunately, the cost of those misses can be high: damaged trucks, injured employees, DOT fines, costly downtime, and more.
Here are five of the most common fleet safety mistakes for waste haulers and how to avoid them.
1. Skipping Pre-Trip Inspections
Rushing out the door without a quick inspection is like flying blind. Inspectors often catch tire issues, brake failures, and lighting problems during those daily checks. Make inspections a non-negotiable part of every shift.
2. Pushing Routes Too Aggressively
Efficiency is important, but safety always comes first. Overly tight schedules can lead to speeding, distracted driving, or skipping procedures. Build realistic routing that allows for safe driving and brief breaks.
3. Inconsistent Driver Training
One annual safety meeting isn’t enough. Offer ongoing, short-format training on topics like blind spot awareness, reversing safely, or operating in severe weather. Consistency builds muscle memory and safer behavior.
4. Delaying Repairs
We understand that downtime costs money. However, ignoring a warning light or a strange sound can lead to breakdowns, accidents, or expensive emergency repairs. Don’t fall into the trap of saying, “Just one more week…” Stay proactive!
5. Not Creating a Reporting Culture
It’s simple: drivers won’t report issues if they think it’ll get them in trouble. Encourage a culture where your drivers communicate near misses, vehicle problems, or safety concerns early on.
Fleet safety isn’t just about policies; it’s about habits. Help your drivers stay safe and keep compliant by avoiding these easy-to-miss mistakes. If you’re searching for customized garbage truck insurance, reach out today to one of our experts.
Whether it’s general liability, workers’ compensation, or simply industry expertise, we’ve got you covered. We know garbage and we know coverage, so we help you save without cutting corners.